Psalms 22-26

Psalm 22 - this follows the general pattern: doubt at being abandoned by God, recognition that God has through before, complaining about his situation (people mock him, he seems physically injured, his enemies surround him), and ending with optimism that God will come through for him and the generations to come.

This psalm is the one that Jesus quotes in part on the cross: My God, why have you forsaken me?

Psalm 23 - the Lord is my shepherd

I think this Is probably the most famous of all the psalms. It is remarkably simple and short. The imagery is simple - a shepherd, sheep, green pastures, rods, and staff. Despite the simplicity, the opening is rich with themes of protection (rod and staff), provision (I lack nothing/ shall not want), surrender to God (he makes me down to lie), peace and tranquility (green pastures), humility to God (sheep are stupid creatures in contrast to the shepherd), and many others.

It quickly transitions to discussing another famous line - walk through the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil. This is a marked contrast to the tranquil images in the first verses. But they have the same overarching theme of protection by God.

It is easy to see how David would write given his background in being a shepherd.

It also hits on many of themes throughout the Bible - sheep and shepherd. For instance, this theme is also seen in Passover, Christ's sacrifice, and the Nativity (shepherds in the field when Christ was born).

Psalm 24 - a short psalm praising God. It make the statement that the earth and all its inhabitants belong to God. It also discusses God as the "king of glory."

Psalm 25 - another praise psalm. A few things stand out to me - David asks God to forgive him for the mistakes of his youth. It also states that the Lord resides in those that fear him. I think is a very remarkable perspective for someone in the Old Testament. At this time, God's presence (the ark) was in a tent, which inspired David to desire a temple for God. Here, David is associating God's presence with human hearts.

Psalm 26 - David asks God for vindication because he feels he has led a "blameless" life.